The deadliest bombings in military history

Aerial warfare has been around for much longer than modern aircraft have. More than 1,000 years ago, armies in China used incendiary kites known as fire crows to rain fire and debris upon their enemies. Since then, everything from kites to hot air balloons and airplanes have been used to inflict damage from above. The 20th century saw more aerial warfare tactics than any era before or after. With the advent of unmanned drones and satellite surveillance systems, the days of B-52 bombers and dogfighters are over, but it can be argued that's for the best. In World War II alone, an estimated 2.7 million tons of explosives were dropped from airplanes flying high above their targets, and with no targeting systems to speak of, the collateral damage proved to be enormous. Close to one million civilian deaths were caused by the indiscriminate bombing campaigns carried out by both the Allied and Axis powers. Some of these events are well known, such as the unfathomably destructive atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, while others remain in the shadows of history. So, which bombing campaigns proved to be the most destructive ever? Read on to find out.

The top 15 states in America most prone to natural disasters

With floods, hurricanes, and volcanic eruptions taking over the news more than ever before, Americans are understandably concerned about the safety of their homes and families. Based on a list from World Atlas, here is a gallery of the 15 states that are most in danger of destructive weather conditions. How risky is it to live in your state?

From ghost towns to warships: unexpected discoveries when water levels drop

Every continent is feeling the effects of climate change, more than any other time in history. In the Summer of 2024, Nevada's Lake Mead was in the headlines on an almost monthly basis due to the bizarre and grim discoveries exposed by dropping water levels, but it's not the only spot to offer up fascinating and terrifying treasures. Rivers, lakes, and reservoirs all over the world are pulling back to reveal ancient sites and forgotten pieces of history, some that were likely never meant to be found. Intrigued? Click through this gallery to see some of the most interesting and disturbing discoveries made due to dropping water levels and severe droughts.

Cinder cones: the mini volcanoes that pack a punch

Cinder cones are the smallest and simplest type of volcano. But that doesn't mean they can't pack a punch. Best described as steep, conical hills, cinder cones are formed by pyroclastic rock fragments, or cinders, which accumulate and gradually build a tapered mound or knoll with a bowl-shaped crater at the top. While most are modest in size, some appear as large as mountains, spectacular in their scale and beauty. Cinder cones are found scattered around the world, but where can you admire the most dramatic and compelling examples? Click through and find out which destinations can claim cinder cone fame.

These are the biggest volcanic eruptions of all time

From Vesuvius to Laki, we've seen some monstrous eruptions of volcanoes throughout history. Most of these volcanoes are stratovolcanoes, meaning cone-shaped elevations that were built over time from layers of ash and lava. Due to their relatively soft composition, pressure builds up inside until they blow up, which results in sudden explosive eruptions. Their steep slopes then generate pyroclastic flows, making them some of the most dangerous types of volcanoes. The power of such eruptions is measured using the Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI), which is a scale that goes from one to eight. Each succeeding VEI is 10 times greater than the last. Need examples? Click on for some of the worst volcanic eruptions in history.

The most impressive sports stadiums around the world

There are hundreds of incredible stadiums around the world, costing millions and hosting thousands. From World Cup finals to Olympic records, these spaces hold an important place in sporting history. With each new season, countries around the world compete to build and expand their stadiums to become the biggest and best in the world, a feat which is becoming more and more challenging! Click on to see the most extravagant sports stadiums around.

The most unpopular countries in the world — can you guess America's position?

Internet trolls show no mercy when it comes to sharing their opinions online. Voters on The Top Tens have shared their thoughts on their favorite and least favorite countries, and the reasons range from serious human rights violations to the locals' alleged rude behavior towards tourists. Is your favorite travel destination actually one of the most unpopular countries in the world? Click through the gallery to see if you agree with these rankings or not.

The weirdest hobbies of US presidents

It seems the most influential men in American history couldn't just have regular hobbies. Instead, they had pastimes that were either odd, extreme, or just downright violent. Fortunately, Ranker compiled several of the strangest ways presidents of the United States have spent their free time throughout history. Browse through the most bizarre ones in the gallery.

The Scramble for Africa: how Europe conquered a continent

For over four centuries, European nations reshaped the world and transformed from a collection of warring kingdoms into the dominant global powers. But no period of expansion was as dramatic (or as devastating) as the 19th and early 20th centuries, when European empires tightened their grip on the planet. At the heart of this expansion was Africa—the last major landmass that European powers had not yet divided among themselves. What followed was a striking display of technological advancement, diplomatic maneuvering, and sheer ruthlessness, culminating in what is now called the Scramble for Africa. But how did European nations achieve such rapid expansion? Why was this period so different from earlier waves of colonization? And how, despite the collapse of these empires, does their influence still shape the world today? Click through the following gallery to find out.

NASA's recycling ambitions on the Moon

When the Artemis program astronauts land on the Moon in 2026, they will be responsible for building their home. Following the wasteful (albeit extraordinary) space excursion that was Project Apollo, NASA is determined that, this time round, the astronauts will make use of recycled materials. Recycling on the Moon is not easy, however. The lunar environment makes many processes more difficult. Astronauts will be subject to more physical limitations than people trying to recycle on Earth. In answer to this problem, NASA has launched a competition asking entrants to come up with creative ideas for how astronauts can recycle materials once they land on the Moon. Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.

Travel on a budget: cheapest European cities to visit in 2025

Europe offers a diverse range of travel experiences, but for budget-conscious travelers, finding affordable destinations is key. According to recent research and data from Time Out, The Times, Weather2Travel, the Europe Backpacker Index, and Statista, several cities across the continent stand out for their affordability without compromising on charm or culture. From charming historic towns to vibrant cultural hubs, these cities offer an unforgettable European experience at a fraction of the cost, making them perfect for anyone looking to explore Europe on a budget. In this gallery, you'll find the top 21 most affordable cities in Europe, as well as the most expensive ones. Click through to get started.

Beyond the classroom: How volunteering shapes students at QF schools

Tribune NetworkDohaIn an effort to foster a culture where giving back is central to life in Qatar – and mirroring Qatar Foundation’s values of excellence, integrity, community, innovation, and rootedness – students across its schools are encouraged to volunteer.Some schools even require students to complete a set number of volunteering hours to graduate.Sara H. Al Hajri, director of Student Affairs & Community Engagement for Qatar Foundation’s...

Christian relics that are still missing

While historians and archaeologists do their best to preserve and discover objects, many of those that are key to Christianity have somehow disappeared and are yet to be found. Some Christian relics have been lost, others were stolen, and many were never found in the first place. Objects such as Noah's Arc or the Holy Grail are still the subject of much speculation, and the quest to find them never seems to come to an end. Browse through the following gallery and discover Christian relics that are still missing.

Spooky urban legends from Japan

Japan is a country with a rich cultural history, embellished through an extensive canon of folklore that ties in traditional spiritual beliefs and legends passed down and matured through generations. Japanese folklore is already full of tales of spirits and demons, but modern Japan has developed its own unique style of urban legend, which inspired horror movie classics like 'The Ring' (2002) and 'The Grudge' (2004). Stories of vengeful spirits lurking in everyday locations like school bathrooms and quiet train stations are part of the social education for most children growing up in Japan! The scariest thing about many of these trippy tales is that they can be traced back to horrifying real-life events, such as deadly accidents and brutal murders. Naturally, you may be curious! Click through the following gallery for a rundown of the most terrifying urban legends to come from Japan.

Breeds of dogs banned in different countries

When you're thinking about what kind of dog to get, most people go for the more obvious breeds, but some go for the ones with a "violent" reputation only to find out that it's actually restricted or banned in their home country. In fact, 52 countries have some form of breed-specific legislation, which is a type of law that prohibits or restricts particular breeds or types of dog. They range from outright banning the possession of these dogs (with the threat of putting them down), to restrictions and conditions on ownership, including things like what age a person can be to own one, and the requirement of a short leash, a muzzle, registration, insurance, sterilization, microchip implants, or even a tattoo. On Tuesday, August 20, a 53-year-old man from Lancashire in the UK was found dead in his home after being killed by his own dog. The dog was an XL bully, or large American bulldog, a breed that was banned in England in February 2024. Police called to the scene shot and killed the dog, stating that it still posed "a significant threat of serious harm." They are looking for information about the tragic incident and attempting to piece together the circumstances surrounding the man's death. Laws restricting the breeding, sale, and ownership of XL bullies have been rolled out across the UK in 2024. Such laws are born out of fatalities or maulings, and so they presume specific breeds to be dangerous or vicious. Naturally, there has been some backlash, but nonetheless, the restrictions remain in place. Click through to see the most commonly banned or restricted dogs around the world.

The world's quirkiest churches

Buildings of worship have been central elements of many communities for hundreds of years, but, somewhere along the way, architects grew tired of their predictable design. Check out this gallery to see the stunning, profound, hilarious, and confounding physical manifestations of faith around the world.

World tourism is back to pre-pandemic numbers: what will 2025 look like?

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has released its 2024 year-in-review data, confirming that after a long four years, the tourism industry has rebounded to its pre-pandemic figures. Approximately 1.4 billion people traveled internationally last year, a figure representing 99% of the numbers recorded in 2019, the last full year before COVID-19 disrupted global travel. This marks the recovery of international tourism from its worst crisis ever. In this gallery, we look at the key factors driving this remarkable recovery, the emerging trends in global travel, and what the future holds for the tourism industry in 2025 and beyond. Click on the next slide to proceed.

Tourist sites where photography is strictly prohibited

Many tourists find it almost impossible to go on a trip without documenting every moment. However, issues arise when visitors disregard local laws and capture images where they're not allowed. To prevent any embarrassment, fines, or even facing a potential arrest, it's crucial to know exactly where photography is prohibited. So, on your next vacation, make sure you refrain from taking photos in these locations. Click on to discover where photography is strictly forbidden.

The 30 happiest countries in the world (the US isn't in the top 20)

The United Nations World Happiness Report considers 143 countries and the results are not all doom and gloom. Once again, the Nordic countries dominate the top spots in the ranking, but there are also a few surprises in the top 30. Curious? Click on to discover the happiest countries on the planet.

Is the Shroud of Turin a genuine relic or a medieval hoax?

Whether or not an artifact holding the image of Jesus still exists is a matter of hot debate. The Shroud of Turin is a controversial linen, first unveiled in the 1380s when it was presented as the material used to wrap the body of Christ following his crucifixion. Its existence was first recorded in the year 1359 while in the possession of the famed knight Geoffroi de Charny, the seigneur de Lirey. It was denounced as fake by the Bishop of Troyes when first exhibited and has been a topic of dispute for centuries since. Now, new X-ray techniques used to date the shroud appear to confirm it was made around 2,000 years ago, in the time of Jesus. Intrigued? Click on to discover more about the fascinating story of the Shroud of Turin.

The 30 best space movies of all time

Venturing into space has always sparked our curiosity, hasn't it? Imagine floating among stars, encountering otherworldly beings, or battling cosmic threats! That's exactly what these 30 top space movies offer—a thrilling escape to the great unknown. From the gripping drama of Matt Damon stranded in 'The Martian' to the classic space opera of 'Star Wars,' these films take us on wild rides across the universe. Whether it's the mind-bending journey of '2001: A Space Odyssey' or the charming adventure of 'Wall-E,' these movies show just how fun and fascinating space can be. So, grab your popcorn and get comfy. We're about to launch into a world of epic space tales that are sure to entertain, surprise, and maybe even inspire a bit of stargazing. Let's go!

Dangerous creatures found in water

Next time you take a dip in the sea or a paddle in a river, think about what's lurking under the water's surface. Some of the deadliest wildlife on the planet make the oceans and wetlands their home. And beware: these creatures range from the downright vicious to the seriously venomous. Click through this gallery and submerge yourself in this list of aquatic killers.

How do airplanes actually work?

The mystery of flight has has been at the center of human curiosity for centuries. From the sketches of Leonardo da Vinci to the pioneering experiments of the Wright brothers, mankind has tirelessly sought to master the skies. But even as aviation became a defining feature of modern civilization, the fundamental principles behind flight have often been misunderstood. Despite the apparent ease with which an airplane lifts off the ground today, the science behind flight is anything but straightforward. The concept of lift, in particular, remains an area of debate and misconceptions, with numerous explanations (some accurate, others flawed) circulating in both scientific and educational circles. How exactly does an airplane achieve lift? Why do so many explanations of this invisible force fall short? And what can past misconceptions teach us about the complexity of aerodynamics? Click through this gallery to find out.

The remarkable life of Mary Shelley, the mind behind 'Frankenstein'

Mary Shelley, the mastermind behind the classic horror novel 'Frankenstein,' continues to inspire and fascinate people thanks to her contributions to literature. Born in London in 1797, she led a life full of personal and professional challenges, yet managed to create some of the most enduring works of literature of the Romantic era. But while some may simply know her as the woman who wrote 'Frankenstein', there's much more to her story. Curious? Click on for some fascinating facts about Mary Shelley.

America’s most notorious gangs

Delving into the shadowy recesses of America's underbelly reveals a landscape riddled with complex networks of power, loyalty, and violence. The story of gangs in the United States is not just a tale of crime and punishment; it's a saga that intertwines with the very fabric of urban development, migration patterns, and societal changes. This gallery embarks on a journey through the evolution of America's most dangerous gangs, tracing their origins from the early days of territorial skirmishes to their current status as sophisticated, transnational criminal enterprises. Click through to navigate the complex, often shocking world of America's most dangerous gangs, and witness the resilience of the nation's communities in the face of adversity.

These are the countries that charge you a tourist tax

If you've traveled, you've likely paid a tourist tax before. However, you may have never noticed it, as it's often worked into airline tickets or the taxes you pay at your accommodation. Originally, tourist tax was introduced by certain governments with the aim of tempering over-tourism and generating income from large numbers of travelers entering the destination. Now, the money from the tax also goes to protecting natural resources and maintaining tourism facilities. Intrigued? Click on to discover the countries that charge a tourist tax.

What is the Arctic 'Cold Rush,' and why is it heating up?

In December 2024, China unveiled a huge flat-top cargo ship it described as "polar ready." As big as an aircraft carrier, the Fan Zhou 8 has the capability to transport ultra-large components while carving through thick sea ice. Its appearance is indicative of the "Cold Rush"—a new geoeconomic competition to extract additional mineral wealth from the Arctic. Indeed, the gradual yet relentless melting of the polar ice cap is likely to open up new sea routes across the Arctic Ocean, thus facilitating access to previously untapped natural resources. The economic rewards are potentially huge, but the environmental damage and loss of biodiversity to the region is incalculable. Analysts are also voicing defense and security concerns. So, how concerned should we be about this impending Cold Rush? Click through the following gallery and find out why it's such a hot topic.

The best destinations in America for book lovers

Books can transport you to new places and show you new things. But no matter how much you love to read, sometimes there’s just no substitute for a real vacation. If you’re truly obsessed with books, then make your next destination a literary one. These cities have incredible literary scenes, wonderful bookstores, beautiful libraries, and popular literature festivals. Why not pay them a visit?

How to choose a hotel credit card

A hotel credit card can be a great way to help you earn elite status and points toward your next vacation. Find out how to choose a hotel credit card.

World Heritage Sites that are endangered

There are over 1,000 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which 830 are cultural. These landmarks or areas hold such strong cultural, historical, or scientific significance, international treaties have been signed in order to protect them. However, more than 50 of these sites are currently endangered and could face irreparable damage if no measures are taken, according to UNESCO's website. Click on the gallery to explore 15 of the world's most at-risk cultural sites.

The Germanwings tragedy: how one pilot's decision changed history

An infamous flight took off from Barcelona on March 24, 2015, and never arrived at its intended destination. Instead, the plane was involved in a devastating crash in the French Alps that killed everyone on board. Germanwings Flight 9525 was one of the worst tragedies in the history of air travel, but the horror only truly set in when the cause of the crash came to light. What first appeared to be a terrible accident was revealed to be a senseless crime of epic proportions. Click through the following gallery to learn all about what happened on that fateful day.

36 cars named after animals

Prehistoric animals that once roamed the earth

The animal kingdom is full of a variety of animals living on land, in water bodies, and the sky. But millions of years ago, massive creatures called Earth their home, yet have since gone extinct. Some of them, like the giant sloths, were generally gentle. Others, like saber-toothed tigers, dominated their environment with their size and fearsome fangs. And there are so many more tales to tell. Intrigued? Browse through the following gallery and discover the fascinating animals that once roamed the planet.

Incredible natural phenomena in the US that you may not know about

The United States is a beautifully strange place at times. From psychedelic colors to synchronized fireflies, the nation offers a great array of whimsical occurrences. For a tour of some of the most magnificent and bizarre natural phenomena in America, click through the gallery.

The strangest things ever to happen on airplanes

Air travel is usually smooth, but sometimes, unexpected and bizarre things happen on airplanes. From bodies found in wheel wells to a woman stung by a scorpion, these unexpected events leave passengers and crew alike in disbelief. Click through to learn more about these incidents and other bizarre things that have happened on airplanes.

The safest low-cost airlines in 2025

Budget airlines offer a fantastic way for travelers to explore the world without breaking the bank, but safety is always paramount. Can you truly have a cheap flight and peace of mind? Airline Ratings, a renowned source for airline and flying information, crunched the numbers and ranked the world's safest low-cost carriers, proving that affordability doesn't have to compromise your safety. Click through to see which budget airlines aced the safety test and get ready to pack your bags!

These are the happiest cities in the US

While money can't always buy happiness, a move to a new city might lead to a higher quality of life. A study from personal finance company WalletHub looked at 29 key happiness indicators in 182 of America's largest cities to find which ones had the happiest inhabitants. Those indicators fell under three categories: emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment. Intrigued to find out which cities made the top 30? Then check out the following slides.

The best (and worst) train stations in Europe

Europe's train stations offer vastly different experiences, from world-class travel hubs to outdated and inconvenient terminals. The European Railway Station Index, published annually, ranks 50 major railway hubs based on passenger volume, ticket office hours, waiting times, delays, wheelchair accessibility, and amenities like shops and restaurants. Some stations set the standard for efficiency and comfort, while others struggle with overcrowding and poor facilities. In this gallery, we explore the 15 best and 15 worst train stations in Europe. Click on to discover how they ranked!

The high-flying history of bomber aircraft

The history of aviation took a sinister turn on November 1, 1911, when an Italian pilot had the idea of dropping grenades over the battlefield during the Italo-Turkish War. While his improvised attacks on Ottoman positions had little impact, his actions ushered in the era of air-to-ground weaponry and the emergence of the heavy bomber. These military combat aircraft played a vital though highly destructive role in all the major wars of the 20th century. And while the intercontinental ballistic missile eventually superseded the bomber as a long-range weapon platform of choice, there are still a handful of countries operating these aircraft. But how exactly did the bomber evolve, and what are the most iconic examples ever to take off? Click through and read up on the high-flying history of the bomber aircraft.

The best places for a girls' trip around the world

Planning a girls' trip? The world is full of destinations perfect for bonding, unwinding, and making lasting memories with friends. From bustling cities with endless shopping and nightlife, to serene beaches and cultural hotspots, there's a place for every kind of adventure. Whether your group is dreaming of wine tours, scenic hikes, spa days, or culinary experiences, these spots around the globe promise unforgettable moments and plenty of quality time together. Ready to explore? Then click on!

Interested in cozy living? Explore the perks of tiny houses

Do you like the idea of living simple, and owing a small yet practical house within your budget? If home for you means simple, cozy, and practical living, then a 'tiny house' can be a great option. Click here to get to know more about these minimalist houses and their advantages!

We've hunted down the world's most UNLOVED countries

These are the world's most unloved and least-visited countries, based on visitor numbers from UN Tourism – and here's why you should consider them for your wish list.

Unsolved mysteries in each US state

The world is filled with unexplained mysteries, and the United States are no different (quite the opposite actually!). Did you know that in Missouri, a teenager passed away due to complications related to AIDS nearly ten years before the disease was discovered? And in Minnesota, a woman miraculously survived after being found frozen. This gallery comprises renowned unsolved mysteries from each state, ranging from disappearances to UFOs. Click on to delve into America's unexplained underbelly.

The most expensive cities to live in this year (is yours on the list?)

Have you ever dreamed of packing a bag and starting over in the hustle and bustle of New York City? Or spending your golden years in the Hawaiian paradise of Honolulu? Sadly, these romantic daydreams are even further from reality than they once were (unless you happen to have won the lottery). The rental markets in these coveted cities have skyrocketed in recent years, contributing to cost-of-living crises breaking out across the globe. To calculate just how expensive it is to rent in each city, Numbeo came up with the Cost of Rent Index. According to their website, "This index estimates the prices of renting apartments in a city compared to New York City. If the Rent Index is 80, it suggests that the average rental prices in that city are approximately 20% lower than those in New York City." For reference, the Point2 real estate agency estimates that an average NYC apartment goes for US $4,641 per month. In this gallery, you'll find the 30 cities that score highest on the Rent Index. Click through for a tour of the most eye-wateringly expensive rental markets in the world and find out what they have to offer!

A look at the planet's most hazardous wildlife

The chances of being fatally attacked by an animal might be low, but do you know which species are most likely to kill you if it does happen? These dangerous creatures come in all shapes and sizes. And while some cause large numbers of human fatalities, others are relatively unheard of but extremely lethal when contact is made. Click through the following gallery to discover the most dangerous animal in the world.

Incredible images of abandoned transportation from around the world

Watching nature reclaim man-made vehicles that were once at the shiny forefront of human progress is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience. Check out these incredible images of planes, boats, trains, cars, and trucks that now lie forgotten and decaying in their surroundings.

Who holds the title of youngest US president?

In 2021, Joe Biden made history by becoming the oldest American president ever. But how does he compare with other US presidents throughout history? The median age for American presidents on the day of their inauguration is actually 55 years old. However, there have been many who were considerably younger, and older, when they took office. In this gallery, we bring you the oldest and youngest US presidents in history. Click through to find out who they are.

The most dangerous sports in the world

There are many sports, especially extreme ones, that have a level of associated danger that can be life-threatening. While it may be hard to figure out which one is the most dangerous, you have to take into account the number of injuries as well as fatalities. And while certain sports seem obvious, some will surprise you. From snowboarding to rugby, and even cheerleading, these are some of the world's most dangerous sports. Click on to discover them.

America's secret airline the government doesn't want you to know about

Did you know that the US government operates a top-secret airline called Janet? The airline tends to fly under the radar, even though it operates out of commercial airports. However, if you've never noticed the discreet, unmarked aircraft fleet, you're not the only one. Janet's operations and the activities of the passengers it transports are highly classified, but take a look at what is known about the airline in the following gallery.

The US has been involved in wars for 94% of its existence

Did you know that since its declaration of independence in 1776, the United States has only had 15 years or so of continuous peace? Granted, it took military action to establish the nation in the first place, but since the American Revolutionary War ended in 1783 there's rarely been a time when the country has not taken up arms. And with the latest exchange of fire in the Middle East, Washington appears yet again to ready itself for armed conflict. So, what are some of the most infamous military engagements that have seen America at war on and off since its birth? Click through and find out why peace has never really been given a chance.